About Hoya

The Hoya Variable Neutral Density (ND) Filter (0.45-2.7ND) uses two polarizing layers to control the amount of light that passes through the filter and into the camera lens. At it's minimum effect the filter passes 1/3 of the light in a scene. That is equal to 1.5 stops on the aperture or shutter speed. At it maximum effect the filter passes just 1/400 of the light in a scene. That is equal to 9 stops on the aperture or shutter speed.

After the filter is mounted on the lens, turning the filter ring between "Min" and "Max" can greatly control the amount of light entering the lens. With the Hoya Variable Neutral Density (ND) Filter (0.45-2.7ND) it is possible to shoot with fast lenses like 50mm f/1.4 lenses wide open at f/1.4 in full sun for a very shallow depth of field. Or, to slow down the shutter speed to where the shutter can be open for several seconds in full sunlight. This is enough to create artistic blurring shots of motion on water, cars, people or almost anything that moves. The creative possibilities are endless.

The Hoya Variable Neutral Density (ND) Filter (0.45-2.7ND) uses high-quality optical glass from Hoya Corporation, the worlds largest optical glass manufacturer and is available in sizes 52mm to 82mm.

For best results Hoya recommends using a tripod when photographing at slow shutter speeds.

Only one real issue: At the darkest setting (labeled as 'Min') there is an indistinct 'X' pattern. Adjusting slightly away from 'Min' solves this. Also at very dark settings there is a slight color change. Easy to use: Use aperture priority. Set to 'Max' (ie. maximum light transmission) focus, then dial in darkness to get the shutter speed you want.

VS

Most Liked Negative Review

Can't use the min setting at all

wow. terrible results at the min setting. HORRIBLE cross pattern for long exposures using wide angle lenses... absolute waste of money because you can't even use it for most dramatic settings.

Reviewed by 6 customers

Sunday, February 09, 2014

(3 of 4 customers found this review helpful)

2.0

Can't use the min setting at all

By tiCreativeMedia

from Boston, MA
-
Semi-pro Photographer

wow. terrible results at the min setting. HORRIBLE cross pattern for long exposures using wide angle lenses... absolute waste of money because you can't even use it for most dramatic settings.

Only one real issue: At the darkest setting (labeled as 'Min') there is an indistinct 'X' pattern. Adjusting slightly away from 'Min' solves this. Also at very dark settings there is a slight color change. Easy to use: Use aperture priority. Set to 'Max' (ie. maximum light transmission) focus, then dial in darkness to get the shutter speed you want.

I was quite pleased with this filter. It seemed sturdy and well-made. It is the first one like this I have used, so I can't compare it to other brands, but it worked quite well giving me clear pictures while photographing waterfalls with longer shutter speeds for the silky water effect, without overexposing them.